Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) 4WD Working?

[arollan]

Evening,



I recently spent the weekend camping at a buddies farm and through several sessions of 'playing' in the fields and mud trails, noticed that perhaps 4x4 mode was not working properly. To my knowledge, the transfer case is working properly since 4x4 low does produce low range, however, my question is do the Dodge's have vacum operated front hubs to lock the wheels to the axle? I know my old Ranger (I know I know... dont use the word Ford) had this problem once or twice before, a fuse would somehow blow and from then until replacement 4x4 would appear to work however without true front hub lockup. The 4x4 light on the dash never lights up either on my rig. Any advice would be much appreciated!



Allen

 

[SEmerson]

There is a vacuum actuated unit on the front passenger side axel. The light will not come on until it is locked.

 

[arollan]

Ok thanks. Is there a fuse associated with that unit or coulde I be looking at a poor connection somewhere in the system?

 

[y-knot]

There is a fuse associated with the 4 wheel drive activation light that is in the dash, but your most likely problem is a connection on the axle itself be it vacuum of electrical. Dodge uses what is called a Central axle disconnecting system (CAD), is uses a vacuum motor to slide a sleeve over the two piece axle or off of it. When you choose 4X4 on the transfer case that locks the transfer case into gear, which will send power to the front axle. There is also a vacuum switch on top of the transfer case that when placed into 4 wheel drive, re-directs vacuum to the front CAD system to engage the front axle, and allow normal 4 wheel drive operation. Up front on the passenger side, back side of the axle tube is an electrical switch, this is what sends the signal to the dash light that you are in 4-Wheel drive. It is designed to alert the drive that all systems have changed states, and the 4 wheel drive system is up and functioning properly. It you have a problem with the trucks axle not locking, it would most likely be a vacuum issue, that can be easily check with a vacuum gage at the front axle. If that is working fine, then it would be an electrical problem with the switch, or lack of voltage. Both as easy to trace out.